Top 10 Tips For Chartering With Young Children
Chartering a luxury yacht with children requires thoughtful planning, but the rewards are well worth the effort. With the right yacht, crew, and itinerary, your family can embark on a journey that combines relaxation, adventure, and the joy of spending quality time together on the open seas.
Here's our guide on how to charter a luxury yacht with children and create lasting family memories together.
Choose the Right Yacht
When selecting a yacht, opt for one with ample space and family-friendly amenities. Consider cabins with enough room for the entire family, and inquire about onboard facilities such as childproofing options, kid-friendly entertainment systems, and a dedicated play area. If the nanny is sharing a cabin with the kids, often some cabins can sleep three in one room - two people in two twin beds and one child in a Pullman bunk (that comes out of the wall).
Another feature your broker can look for is older yachts with gunnels. The fiberglass gunnel or “gunwale” is where the deck and hull come together and make up the sides of the boat. If it’s high enough, it provides a wall on deck between passengers and the water, thus, smaller children are contained. If the yacht has stainless steel sides, we can install netting as well.
Select a Family-Friendly Destination
Choose an itinerary that includes destinations suitable for children. Islands with calm waters, shallow, pristine beaches, and engaging activities can make the journey more enjoyable for the little ones.
Safety First
Prioritize safety by ensuring the yacht is equipped with childproof features. Confirm the availability of life jackets (for tender or jet ski rides) for all family members and discuss safety protocols with the crew. Familiarize yourself with the yacht's layout and identify potential hazards. It’s also possible to purchase a sensor for your child to wear so that if they enter the water unsupervised, the alarm will sound.
Bring kid-sized hats – floppy-brimmed hats with an under-neck tether are great. Could also be a good idea to bring sunscreen they are familiar with as well as kid-sized swim shirts/rash guards to avoid sunburns.
Engaging Activities Onboard
Keep the children entertained with age-appropriate activities. Yachts often come equipped with water toys, snorkeling gear, and fishing equipment. Confirm these amenities in advance and we can also have the crew provide games or toys suitable for their ages. We can also look for a yacht that has a netted sea pool the kids can swim in.
Kid-Friendly Menus
Discuss meal options with the yacht's chef to ensure there are kid-friendly choices available. Having familiar and favorite foods on hand can make mealtime more enjoyable for the younger members of the family.
Photo by Ryland Dean on Unsplash
Consider Crew Expertise
Choose a yacht with a crew experienced in catering to families with children. A knowledgeable crew can offer insights into family-friendly activities and ensure a smooth sailing experience. They can also advise on hiring a local nanny to stay on board for the trip or just help for the day if needed.
Plan Shore Excursions
Plan shore excursions that cater to the interests of both adults and children. Whether it's exploring marine life, visiting historical sites, or enjoying a family beach day, mixing on-board relaxation with exciting activities on land will create a well-rounded experience.
Communication with Crew
Establish open communication with the crew, informing them about any specific needs or preferences related to the children. A collaborative approach ensures that everyone is on the same page, creating a harmonious environment for the entire family. And make sure to let us know what you need on the preference sheet! Crew can also do their best to child-proof by removing any fragile objects from the yacht’s interior.
Advise crew if planning for the day should incorporate a midday nap for wee ones. We would love to organize a treasure hunt for the kids, so just ask! Let us know on the preference sheet what the kids are into (horse riding? soccer? video games?) so we can plan a themed dinner or fun activity for them.
Bedtime Routines
Maintain bedtime routines to ensure the children get enough rest during the journey. Discuss with the crew about any special arrangements needed for sleeping arrangements or bedtime rituals.
Capture the Memories
Bring along a camera to capture the special moments. Whether it's a family snorkeling adventure, a sunset cruise, or a beachside picnic, these memories will be cherished for years to come. Maybe plan to do a family photo shoot with a professional photographer for your annual family picture.
There is so much your Charter Consultant can put in place to make sure your time on board not only meets but exceeds your expectations, leaving you to enjoy the best yachting has to offer. Get in touch to find out more and start planning your ultimate vacation.